LANSING, Mich. – The Milligan University women's bowling program continued the quest for a Red Banner at the NAIA Championships at Royal Scot Lanes in Lansing, Mich. After falling to a red-hot Cumberland (Tenn.) team in yesterday's matchup, the three-seeded Lady Buffs were set to face seven-seeded Ottawa (Kan.) squad in an early morning best-of-seven Baker series in the elimination bracket. After falling behind three games to none, Milligan rattled off two straight, but the comeback attempt fell just short in Game six, losing 196-183, and dropping the series 4-2.

The Lady Buffs quickly found themselves trailing by three games in the series. In Game three, Milligan lost the tightest game of the day by just four pins (204-200). Following that game, the Buffs responded with decisive victories in Games four and five, winning by 20-plus pin margins in each. In the deciding Game six, Milligan jumped out to a 105-100 lead through five frames, but Ottawa responded with strikes in three of the next four frames to take a 187-165 advantage into the 10th frame. In the final frame, Ottawa stumbled by failing to pick up a spare after knocking down eight pins on the first roll, leaving the door open for Milligan. However, Milligan was unable to find the strike they desperately needed and fell by a final score of 196-183.

With the second loss of the tournament, Milligan was eliminated, bringing their season to a close. Overall, it was a great season for the Lady Buffs, who were ranked as high as No. 1 in national polls. The season was highlighted by a first-place finish out of 42 teams in the Tier One Glenn Carlson Invitational. Milligan also had a strong performance in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) Tournament, where they finished runner-up to SCAD Savannah.

For full NAIA Championship results click HERE